How to Measure Wig Length Accurately: The Ultimate WIGI Hair Guide

Measuring your wig length correctly is the first step to achieving a natural, flawless look. This WIGI Hair guide explains exactly how to measure wig length (for both straight and curly styles), why the “stretched length” is longer than what you see, and how to choose the perfect length for your face shape, height, and styling habits.

Why Wig Length Matters and How It’s Measured

Your wig length shapes your entire style - short cuts give a modern, effortless vibe, shoulder-length hair feels natural and versatile, while long hair adds softness and elegance.

However, photos can be deceiving: curly or wavy wigs always appear shorter than straight ones even when they share the same inch measurement. The curl pattern naturally shortens visible length.

In the wig industry, length is measured from the top of the cap (crown) to the very end of the longest strand, not following the curve of the curls. That’s why trusted brands like WIGI Hair use the term stretched length - the measurement taken when the hair is gently pulled straight. It’s the only accurate way to compare straight, wavy, and curly textures.

Accurate measurement also matters when buying wigs online — what looks long on one person might appear shorter on another depending on body height and proportions. Knowing how to measure wig length correctly lets you visualize exactly where each inch will fall on you. For example, a 20-inch wig might sit at chest length for someone 160 cm tall but reach the collarbone on someone taller. That’s why professional wig brands like WIGI Hair always include detailed measurement charts and stretched-length visuals to help you make the best choice before ordering.

How to Measure Wig Length

To get an accurate result, start by placing the wig on a mannequin head or stand so the hair falls naturally as it would when worn. Find the crown (top center of the cap) and measure straight down to the tip of the longest strand - that’s your true length.

For wavy or curly wigs, detangle first, then gently stretch the hair before measuring. The result is your stretched length - the official standard across professional wig makers.

Remember: at the same inch mark, curlier hair looks shorter. A 20-inch straight wig appears full-length, a 20-inch body-wave looks about 18 inches, and a 20-inch curly often looks closer to 16–17 inches. When shopping online, always check the stretched length rather than relying only on product photos.

Many buyers new to wigs wonder why their curly unit “feels shorter.” This is normal - you’re seeing the difference between visible curl length and stretched measurement. Knowing how to measure wig length for curly hair helps you select the perfect inch that delivers your desired look without surprises.

For the most precise result, always use a soft, flexible measuring tape rather than a ruler. Keep the tape flat against the hair — not following waves or bends — and make sure the wig is completely dry before measuring, since damp strands may stretch slightly and give a longer reading. If you are working with layered wigs, measure several sections (middle, sides, and back) to compare consistency. Practicing how to measure wig length accurately before purchasing will help you choose the right inch for your everyday or glam look without second-guessing the result.

Wig Length Chart - From Short to Extra Long

Here’s a helpful chart to visualize how straight wig lengths from 12″ to 26″ fall naturally on your body - from chic shoulder cuts to dramatic waist-length styles.

When comparing your ideal style to this chart, remember that curly and wavy wigs fall slightly shorter visually. For instance, a 24-inch curly wig may sit closer to mid-back rather than waist-length. That’s why brands like WIGI Hair provide precise, hand-measured stretched lengths to ensure you always know exactly what you’re getting.

How to Choose the Right Wig Length for You

Choosing the right length is not just about style - it’s also about your height, face shape, and daily routine. The perfect wig enhances your proportions while matching your lifestyle.

By face shape:

• Round face: Choose 18–22″ lengths to elongate and slim facial features.

• Heart-shaped face: Shoulder-length styles balance a wider forehead and narrower chin.

• Oval face: Lucky you - every length from 14–24″ works beautifully.

By lifestyle:

If you’re always on the go or prefer low-maintenance beauty, 14–16″ lengths are ideal - they’re easy to wash, style, and travel with.

For glam moments or special occasions, go for 20–24″ wigs for a luxurious, camera-ready look.

By wig type:

Although the measured length is the same, U-Part and V-Part wigs can appear slightly longer when worn. That’s because lace wigs are measured from the crown (top of the head), whereas U/V-Part wigs are measured from the opening or edge of the cap. Since they sit lower on your head, the hair starts further down - creating the look of a longer length overall.

Understanding how to measure wig length based on wig type ensures that you compare apples to apples. A 20-inch U-Part wig may visually look like a 22-inch lace wig due to cap placement, not incorrect measurement.

By height and body proportion:

Your height can subtly change how a wig length appears. If you’re petite (under 160 cm), a 20-inch wig may already reach mid-back, while on taller individuals, the same length might fall closer to the shoulders. For balanced proportions, short to medium lengths (14–18″) create harmony for smaller frames, while long styles (20–24″) add graceful flow for taller wearers. Considering height when choosing helps ensure the length you pick truly enhances your natural silhouette.

Pro Tips to Keep Wig Length Consistent

Maintaining your wig’s true length over time depends on how you care for it. Follow these expert WIGI Hair tips:

• Always detangle first – use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush before washing.

• Use sulfate-free shampoo – prevents dryness and hair shrinkage.

• Store properly – on a mannequin or wig stand to preserve shape.

• Trim ends regularly – keeps the hair smooth and prevents breakage.

Avoid excessive heat – high temperatures can weaken strands and shorten visible length.

If you wear curly or wavy wigs, deep-conditioning every few washes helps retain the natural curl pattern - keeping your wig length consistent and the texture bouncy and soft.

After styling, apply a lightweight hair serum or argan oil to the mid-lengths and ends to lock in moisture and reduce frizz. This not only keeps your strands smooth but also prevents heat-related shrinkage that can make wigs appear shorter over time. If you frequently use hot tools, alternate with heatless methods to preserve the hair’s elasticity and maintain consistent length and shine for longer.

Where to Buy Accurately Measured Human Hair Wigs

When you invest in a human hair wig, accuracy in length measurement and craftsmanship makes all the difference. At WIGI Hair, every strand is measured by hand to ensure true-to-inch precision and natural flow - whether you choose Full Lace, Frontal, Closure, V-Part, or U-Part wigs.

Full Lace Wigs

Provide 100% lace coverage for maximum flexibility - you can part or style in any direction. Each WIGI Hair full lace wig uses 100% Vietnamese human hair, measured strand-by-strand for accuracy and finished with soft HD lace for a scalp-like look.

Lace Frontal & Lace Closure Wigs

Our Lace Frontals and Closures are crafted using transparent lace and hand-tied for a flawless melt with your skin tone. Each piece is measured from crown to tip to match the true stretched length listed on-site.

V-Part & U-Part Wigs

These V-Part and U-Part wigs are designed for natural blending with your leave-out hair. Because they sit slightly lower on the head, the hair appears 1–2 inches longer - yet every strand is still measured accurately for consistency.

Wig Length Range

All WIGI Hair wigs are available in 14” to 24”, with straight, body wave, deep wave, and curly textures. Whether you want a chic 14-inch bob or a glamorous 24-inch look, you’ll always receive the exact length you order - no surprises.

Every wig is ethically sourced, double-wefted for durability, and inspected by WIGI’s quality control team to guarantee true inch accuracy and long-term softness.

If you’ve ever received a wig that looked shorter than expected, WIGI Hair’s accurate measuring standards ensure that what you order is what you wear - every time.

Conclusion

Now that you know exactly how to measure wig length - from straight to curly textures and everything in between - you can confidently choose a style that complements your height, face shape, and personality. Getting this step right ensures every wig looks natural, fits perfectly, and enhances your beauty effortlessly. At WIGI Hair, each strand is hand-measured and crafted from 100% Vietnamese Human Hair for exceptional softness, strength, and lasting shine. ready to discover your perfect match? Explore our Human Hair Wig Collection today, where accurate measurement meets authentic beauty.